Also known as pressure-sensitive labels, are labels that stick to surfaces using an adhesive that is already applied to the back of the label. These labels are designed to adhere to a wide variety of surfaces, including paper, plastic, metal, glass, and more. They are commonly used for labeling products, organising items, and as shipping and address labels.
The adhesive on self-adhesive labels is typically a pressure-sensitive adhesive, which means that it adheres to the surface through the application of pressure, rather than requiring heat or moisture to activate. This makes them easy to apply and convenient to use, as they can be simply peeled off their backing and applied to the desired surface.
Labels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be printed with text, graphics, and barcodes using a variety of printing technologies. They can be used in a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, retail, and logistics.
Labels are commonly used for branding, product identification, and marketing purposes. Adhesives play a crucial role in the effectiveness of labels as they provide the necessary bonding between the label and the substrate.
There are different types of adhesives used on labels, including:
- Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) – This type of adhesive requires only pressure to adhere to a surface, making it convenient for use on a variety of substrates. PSAs can be permanent or removable.
- Hot-melt adhesive – These adhesives are thermoplastic and become fluid when heated. They are commonly used in the food and beverage industry due to their resistance to moisture and heat.
- Solvent-based adhesive – These adhesives are made up of a combination of solvents and polymers. They provide excellent adhesion to difficult surfaces such as plastics and metals.
- Water-based adhesive – These adhesives are made up of water and polymers. They are environmentally friendly and commonly used in the packaging industry.
- UV-curable adhesive – These adhesives require exposure to ultraviolet light to cure. They are commonly used in the electronics industry due to their ability to bond to plastics and metals.
The choice of adhesive depends on various factors such as substrate type, environmental conditions, and the intended use of the label.